The case of the Crest Hill Illinois killer has finally reached a dramatic conclusion. Patrick Gleason, 63, has been found guilty of first-degree murder and several related charges for a deadly shooting inside a Joliet bar in 2018.
The verdict, delivered by a Will County jury in October 2025, ends years of delays and brings a sense of justice to victims’ families and the local community.
Table of Contents
A Night That Turned Tragic
On March 9, 2018, a normal Friday night at Izzy’s Bar in Joliet suddenly turned violent. Gleason, a resident of Crest Hill, had been at the bar earlier in the evening. When staff told him he couldn’t smoke indoors, he became angry and left.
A short time later, he returned wearing a mask and carrying a gun. As soon as he entered, he opened fire:
- Daniel “Danny” Rios III, a popular bartender, was shot and killed.
- A patron was targeted but not hit.
- The bar owner’s son was shot in the arm during the confrontation.
The attack stunned the community. Rios was well known and loved in the Joliet area. His sudden death left friends, family, and regulars in shock.
Years of Waiting for Trial
Although Gleason was arrested soon after the shooting, the trial didn’t begin until 2025 — more than seven years later. Legal motions, evidence disputes, and procedural delays pushed the case back multiple times.
For the families, each postponement meant reliving the pain. Community members expressed frustration at how long it took for the case to reach a courtroom. The phrase “Crest Hill Illinois killer” became a local reference point for the long, winding path toward justice.
Inside the Courtroom
The trial centered on clear and powerful evidence.
Surveillance footage from the bar showed a masked gunman firing at patrons. Multiple witnesses testified they recognized Gleason from his build and clothing, despite the mask.
Several patrons recalled the earlier argument about smoking and said Gleason threatened to return. Those statements supported the prosecution’s claim that the attack was planned.
During the trial:
- Witnesses described the chaos inside the bar during the shooting.
- Some recounted how patrons helped restrain the gunman afterward.
- The defense questioned the handling of the video and argued about witness memory after so many years.
Gleason did not testify in his defense. His attorneys pushed for new jury instructions to support self-defense claims, but the judge rejected those requests.
The Jury’s Decision
After days of testimony and deliberation, the jury found Patrick Gleason guilty of:
- First-degree murder for the killing of Daniel Rios
- Attempted murder for firing at another patron
- Aggravated battery for shooting the bar owner’s son
As the verdict was read, the courtroom grew silent. Family members hugged one another and cried softly. Some supporters applauded quietly once the jury confirmed the guilty verdicts.
For many, the decision brought a mix of relief and sorrow — justice had finally been delivered, but it could never bring Rios back.
Sentencing on the Horizon
Patrick Gleason faces a potential life sentence for the murder conviction, plus additional years for the other charges. Sentencing is scheduled for November 18, 2025, at Will County Court.
Prosecutors are expected to seek the maximum penalty. Gleason’s defense team has already announced plans to file post-trial motions and appeals, challenging parts of the trial process.
A Lasting Impact on Crest Hill and Joliet
This case left deep marks on both Crest Hill and Joliet. Rios wasn’t just a bartender — he was part of the social fabric of the community. Regular customers described him as friendly, quick-witted, and always ready with a smile.
The long legal battle kept the tragedy in the public eye for years. Residents spoke openly about the fear and grief that lingered after the shooting. The phrase Crest Hill Illinois killer became tied to both the violent night in 2018 and the slow march toward accountability.
Why This Case Stood Out
Several factors made this case stand out:
- Local Connection: Gleason was from Crest Hill, adding a personal dimension for many locals.
- Public Setting: The shooting happened in a crowded bar — a place where people felt safe.
- Long Delays: More than seven years passed before the verdict, keeping emotions raw.
- Symbolic Closure: The verdict represents closure for families and the community, even if the pain remains.
Next Steps
With the trial complete, attention now turns to sentencing. The victims’ families are expected to give impact statements, sharing how the crime changed their lives forever.
Gleason’s legal team will likely argue for a reduced sentence or prepare for appeals, but many believe the verdict will stand. For the families and community members, the focus is now on healing and honoring Rios’ memory.
Community Reaction
In Crest Hill and Joliet, the verdict has sparked conversations about justice, patience, and the long journey through the court system. Many residents expressed relief that the case was finally resolved. Others reflected on how one violent act rippled through families, friendships, and neighborhoods.
Rios’ friends have shared stories about his kindness and humor, choosing to remember his life rather than the tragedy. Several local establishments have plans to honor him in the coming months.
A Turning Point After Years of Waiting
The Crest Hill Illinois killer case took more than seven years to reach this point. Now, with Patrick Gleason convicted, the community can finally begin to move forward. While no verdict can erase the loss, it represents a clear stand for justice and accountability.
What are your thoughts on this case and the long wait for justice? Share your perspective below.